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The Browns’ supremely talented wide receiver who easily outruns defensive backs but can’t seem to steer clear of trouble, Gordon returned to practice Wednesday for the first time since his 10-game suspension ended. The league’s leader in yards receiving last season, Gordon has returned just in time to give the Browns (6-4) a much needed offensive jolt.

The Browns plan to bring him back slowly this week, but No. 12 is expected to be on the field Sunday when Cleveland visits Atlanta.

“I can tell he’s very excited to be out there,” said Browns coach Mike Pettine, who met with Gordon before practice. “He’s ready to go.”

Gordon showed some rustiness by dropping two passes during the portion of practice open to media members. But the sight of the 6-foot-3, 225-pounder, with his smooth stride and rare explosiveness off the line, had to be warming to quarterback Brian Hoyer and offensive co-ordinator Kyle Shanahan, who hasn’t been able to include him in a game plan this season.

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Pettine is downplaying how much Gordon will be used in his first game back, but Falcons coach Mike Smith expects the Pro Bowler to have an immediate impact.

“We’re anticipating seeing Josh Gordon out there on the very first play and seeing him out there for the majority of the plays in the ball game,” Smith said on a conference call.

Pettine cautioned that Gordon may not be ready — mentally or physically. The Browns intend to keep Gordon on a “pitch count” in practice and build up his reps as the week moves on.

“There needs to be a progression,” Pettine said. “The trap to fall into is, ‘Hey, he’s back and let’s just go ahead and throw him out there for a bunch of plays.’ There’s certainly danger inherent in doing that and we have to be smart with how we do it and have a plan to progress through the week.”

Gordon hasn’t spoken to local reporters since April, shortly before he failed another drug test for marijuana and was banned for a year for being a repeat offender. His suspension was later reduced to 10 games.

Gordon was suspended for the first two games last season but still amassed 1,646 yards receiving, scored nine touchdowns and emerged as one of the game’s most dazzling players.

He was on the cusp of superstardom, but couldn’t stay clean and wound up being punished by the league.

Gordon was not permitted to work out with his teammates during his suspension, but the 23-year-old was allowed to be in team meetings and that interaction helped him stay connected and driven.

“He’s worked his butt off,” said wide receiver Andrew Hawkins. “I know it’s not documented what he’s been doing the last 10 weeks. He’s done everything he’s been asked to do. Some of the things are actually a little bit even more than what we’re doing. He’s here early in the morning. He’s meeting with the people he needs to meet with. He’s working out. He’s staying in shape.

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